2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 229 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mazda | Audi |
Model | 3 | A3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |